£121 million investment confirmed for East Midlands roads
A £121 million package has been confirmed after being considered by the authority’s transport committee to improve roads across the East Midlands, following backing from the Mayor of the East Midlands. The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) transport committee has agreed the funding over the next three years to support the region’s four highway authorities.
The investment aims to make roads safer, reduce congestion, and address long-standing wear and tear caused by years of underinvestment. The package now moves to the EMCCA board for final approval.
In Chesterfield, the Staveley Regeneration Route (Derbyshire) is one of the key projects underway. £2.5m is invested in development to support housing and regeneration.
What the funding will deliver:
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Road repairs and maintenance: Resurfacing worn roads, fixing potholes, and upgrading street lighting.
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Improved footways and cycleways: Safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
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Proactive maintenance: Measures to prevent future road damage.
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Combined improvements: Drainage upgrades and public realm enhancements in many locations.
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Neighbourhood transport projects: Over £13.5 million dedicated to smaller schemes such as traffic calming, better signage, and improved local travel across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire.
Mayor Claire Ward said:
“This year, 2026, is the year of delivery for the East Midlands. With this £121m investment now approved, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and make roads safer, journeys smoother, and communities stronger. This isn’t just planning, it’s action, and residents will start seeing the benefits this year.”
She also highlighted progress on the existing £184 million transport programme, which is already delivering safer roads, improved bus services, new cycle routes, and better travel connections.
“By focusing on road maintenance, safer streets, and better transport connections, we are delivering real benefits now while laying strong foundations for long-term improvements over the next seven years,” she added.
The programme remains on track to spend £151m this year, marking the first year of a seven-year plan to deliver long-term improvements across the East Midlands.
